Chilwell Croft Academy, located in Birmingham, continues to be recognized as a good school following its recent inspection on April 10 and 11, 2024. Under the leadership of headteacher Nanette Wragg, the school is part of the Equitas Academies Trust, which provides additional oversight and support. The trust is led by CEO Alex Lofthouse and a board of trustees chaired by Wadim Wesolek.
Pupils at Chilwell Croft Academy enjoy a supportive and inclusive environment that aligns with the school’s motto, All different, all equal, all achieving. This ethos fosters a sense of belonging among students, allowing them to express themselves without fear of judgment. The school emphasizes the importance of both academic and personal development, offering a variety of enriching experiences through trips and guest speakers that enhance learning beyond the classroom.
The school maintains high expectations for pupil behavior, which is well understood and adhered to by students. This results in a positive atmosphere where pupils are attentive and actively engaged in their learning. The leadership team has implemented a curriculum that is ambitious and tailored to meet the diverse needs of its pupils, particularly those who speak English as an additional language. Early language and reading skills are prioritized, ensuring that all pupils receive consistent instruction from the start of their education.
Chilwell Croft Academy has made significant strides in improving early reading, with a structured approach that helps pupils develop phonetic skills from the beginning of the Reception Year. Staff are trained to identify pupils who may be at risk of falling behind, allowing for timely interventions that support their progress. The school also promotes a love of reading through a diverse selection of class texts, which pupils enthusiastically discuss.
In core subjects, the school has worked to create a more consistent learning experience, particularly in mathematics, where pupils demonstrate a solid understanding of essential concepts. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in some foundation subjects where clarity around key knowledge has not been fully established. This has led to gaps in understanding for some pupils, as misconceptions are not always addressed effectively.
In response to previous writing scores that were lower than expected, the school has begun to address historical gaps in writing knowledge and skills. This initiative aims to enhance pupils' ability to write fluently and appropriately for their age. The school is committed to ensuring that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive the necessary support to thrive academically.
Chilwell Croft Academy also places a strong emphasis on behavior and attendance, with leaders actively monitoring and supporting pupils to meet expectations. The personal development curriculum is designed to prepare pupils for life in modern Britain, incorporating a range of experiences that promote social and cultural understanding.
Staff at the school express support for the leadership team, acknowledging their efforts to manage workload and provide professional development opportunities. However, there are areas where the impact of curriculum delivery needs to be reviewed more consistently to address any remaining inconsistencies in practice.
The school’s safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Overall, Chilwell Croft Academy demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education while continuously seeking to improve and adapt to the needs of its students. The school is well-positioned to build on its successes and address the areas identified for further development.
